1991 | Alfa Romeo SZ

First conceived as the ES30 design study in 1987, the Sprint Zagato (styled by Alfa Romeo Design and Robert Opron, but built at Zagato) caused quite a sensation. Dubbed 'il Mostro' or 'the Monster', this was no conventionally good-looking Alfa Romeo coupe. But such was the overwhelmingly positive reaction to it, that in 1989, Alfa launched a production version at the Geneva Motor Show. Sensibly, it was based on a heavily modified 75 V6 platform, so the SZ had the performance (and sound) to back up its sporty yet unconventional looks. Its ability to hang on in bends really made the SZ special – it was said to be able to generate 1.1g of lateral load. Like the cars that sired it, the SZ had near-50:50 weight balance. Total production of the SZ reached 1036 units, which makes it quite a rare car.

This well kept example was delivered new in Belgium in March 1992 and is a one-owner car. It carries SZ serial number 901, and comes with the full documentation package, still packed in a nicely stitched leather folder. Also the factory delivered car cover is still present, as well as the spare wheel cover in leather. The car is in completely original condition and never repainted. The paint shows some signs of age and has some micro-blastering all over, but that's the proof that it's still in its first factory paint. It is now up the future owner to decide if he prefers it to keep it this way or not. Inside, all leather and carpets are still in good condition. The SZ has only covered 48.260 km from new, and has always been well maintained and cherished. Last year, 4 new Vredestein Ultrac Satin "by Giugiaro" tyres were fitted, and the original and rare OZ wheels are in still in great shape. Technically, it is of course in the same very good working order. The car is just back from a big service by Ferrari specialist Reekmans TS, including the important cambelt change.

The SZ is one of the most collectable Alfa Romeo's, due to its rarity, extreme looks and Zagato pedigree. It is a low-volume handbuilt sportscar, which has increased a lot in value over the last years and will probably continue to rise. If you fancy such a rare and uncompromisingly styled Alfa Romeo, then a visit to our showroom is the next thing to do.